CubCrafters has filed a lawsuit against American Legend Aircraft Co. over its Cub-inspired design, the Legend Cub.
The lawsuit was filed in a Texas federal court to stop Sulphur Springs, Texas-based American Legend Aircraft from using the names “Cub” and “Legend,” as well as the well-known yellow with black stripe design, according to Todd Simons, a spokesman for Yakima, Wash.-based CubCrafters, which has been rebuilding Cubs since 1986. It launched the Sport Cub in July.
The 10-page complaint asks the court to stop American Legend from “diluting the distinctive quality of CubCrafters’ trademarks” and infringing on those trademarks. CubCrafters also wants American Legend to pay all profits derived from selling the disputed merchandise, as well as damages and attorneys’ fees.
Tim Elliott, a spokesman for American Legend Aircraft, said the lawsuit and its claims have “absolutely no merit.” He added the company intends to “continue our strong defense of the case.”
American Legend was created to market the Legend Cub, one of the first Light Sport Aircraft to be manufactured in the United States. It made its first flight in March. Company officials note the Legend Cub is a refined version of the Piper Cub as it is wider, has the fuel tanks in the wings and an optional glass panel.